Deportation case is being ‘reviewed’

Mrs Hyde recently received an email from the Immigration Department confirming her family’s case was being reviewed by the minister and Mr Coleman has since requested more information about the case.

More than 118000 Australians have formally supported the family’s bid to remain here, as have local politicians.

The Hydes have lived here for 10 years; they have paid their own way and paid all their taxes after arriving on working holiday visas in 2009.

In 2015 they submitted an expression of interest for permanent residency, and received a first-round offer to formally apply on August 3 the same year — four weeks before their son was due to be born. As part of the application, newborn Darragh had to undergo a medical assessment, where his cystic fibrosis (an inherited life-threatening disorder that damages the lungs and digestive system) was diagnosed.

The couple’s permanent residency applications were immediately rejected because, in the opinion of the Department of Immigration, Darragh has a severe case of CF and would be a burden to the state. Mr and Mrs Hyde have now applied for bridging visas to extend their stay until a final decision is made.

‘‘This is what we wanted. We’re now keeping our fingers crossed,’’ Mrs Hyde said. ‘‘We are very grateful for all the support the community has shown us. Our thanks go to everyone — we very much appreciate it.’’